Installing a new dishwasher is exciting. It saves you the inconveniences the older one subjected you to or upgrades your kitchen to new convenience levels. The excitement is even greater when you are installing it for the first time. However, the installation process shouldn’t take much time, especially in this busy life. You can reduce dishwasher install time for you and an installing company by preparing early.
Early preparations fast-track the installation process and give both of you value for your time. This way, you can maximize your installation budget, especially if your installer charges hourly. Early preparations ensure that the new washer naturally blends with everything around the kitchen. You will be sure that the new installation will function well and look nice in your kitchen.
This article discusses some of the preparations you can make before the installing contractor steps in. Keep reading to learn how to get on your marks, set, and install your next dishwasher.
-
Prepare the Installation Site
Prepare the site where you will install your next dishwasher. Start by measuring your current dishwasher’s dimensions. You also need to record the distance between the countertop’s under and the floor. Taking this measurement is critical since the new dishwasher will connect to the current water and waste pipes. If these pipes aren’t already installed in your chosen location, you will decide where to install the new dishwasher or call a plumber to assist you.
Additionally, placing your dishwasher against an exterior wall ensures that you don’t waste pipes running through the whole house. Don’t forget to install it on a firm floor to handle any vibration or movement. Don’t forget to position the washer near your sink to allow for easy plate and dish transfer to the machine.
If you are installing the dishwasher in your kitchen for the first time, it’s critical to take care of water inlets, drainage tubes, and electrical wiring. A standard dishwasher requires at least a 24-inch (60cm) wide opening to allow for the machine’s easy fitting and operation.
-
Have the Right Parts Ready
You also need to prepare all the correct parts for your dishwasher installation process. Make sure you have all the necessary hoses and cables available before the installation expert comes in. If possible, don’t reuse the old water inlet or outlet lines the old washer used.
For electrical connections, many models allow for the reuse of old cables. However, you have to ensure that the old units are compatible with the new machine to avoid possible and costly damage.
-
Link Up to a Power Supply
This preparation doesn’t apply to all new or first-time installations. It applies if you have no electric sockets near your new dishwasher. You need to call an electrician to help with this issue before the installation day.
In other cases, some dishwashers run off their own circuits. But you can connect your new unit to your current kitchen circuit. However, it’s imperative to confirm with your local building codes to be sure it’s permissible in your locality because it could be prohibited in some situations.
-
Verify the New Dishwasher Sizes
You have to verify your new dishwasher’s dimensions if you intend to use the same location the old one occupied. An average dishwasher is approximately 24 inches wide and meant for countertop depth of 24 inches and height of between 34 inches and 36 inches.
Also, confirm the dimensions against your kitchen’s layout to ensure that the door will open without interference. Otherwise, you may end up interfering with the kitchen’s drawers, walkways, and doors.
-
Prepare the Dishwasher Cabinet
You also have to prepare the cabinet that will house your new dishwasher. First, you will paint the cabinet with moisture-proof paint. This paint prevents mildew accumulation that could arise from steam.
Second, you can go into the esthetics of the cabinet by fixing it with a door that matches your kitchen’s other units. Alternatively, you could try using a cheaper alternative by fitting it with an appropriate fabric to maintain a matching style. This way, you will be better placed to balance between your new machine’s core washing functionalities and its esthetics.
Preparing for a new dishwasher install process is critical to give you and your installation contractor the best value for your money and time. This article discussed the essential preparations to make before installing a new dishwasher for the first time or replacement. It’s up to you to use these insights to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free installation for your next dishwasher.